The 5th Anniversary Annual Public Lecture of the First Daily Group on Monday brought together a distinguished array of leaders, professionals, and media practitioners in celebration of five years of consistent, credible journalism and public engagement.
The event, chaired by Senator Seriake Dickson, reflected on themes of leadership, integrity, unity, and the deepening of democratic culture in Nigeria.
It also featured a keynote lecture and panel discussions centered on the 2027 general elections and the importance of ensuring that citizens’ votes truly count.
In his remarks, Senator Dickson commended the publisher, Dr. Daniel Iworiso-Markson, and the entire First Daily team for their commitment to excellence and their role in fostering public enlightenment through responsible journalism.
He described the invitation to chair the event as an honour and thanked the organisers for recognising him with the Outstanding Lawmaker of the Year Award, which he said he received with deep appreciation.
Senator expressed gratitude to the dignitaries who attended the ceremony, including Chief Rotimi Amaechi, Ambassador Godknows Igali, Professor Steve Azaiki, Barrister Jonah Okara, and representatives of several governors.
He said their presence reflected the spirit of encouragement and mutual support that should define leadership across all levels.
The lawmaker emphasised the need for Bayelsans and Nigerians at large to show solidarity and uplift one another rather than engage in actions that tear others down.
His words: “We are not many, and we must support and encourage one another. If you cannot help someone, leave them alone.
”Don’t destroy others or celebrate their downfall. God will always raise those destined to help them, ” he said.
Reflecting on his long-standing relationship with Dr. Iworiso-Markson, the senator described him as a man of purpose and a symbol of what can be achieved through diligence and faith.
Using the biblical parable of the sower as an analogy, he likened Markson to a good seed that fell on fertile ground and has now grown into a fruitful tree.
He said that while some seeds fall on rocky soil or among thorns, only those that fall on good soil take root and yield lasting results, noting that Markson’s accomplishments are a testament to that truth.
The senator also congratulated Dr. Markson on completing his doctorate degree, remarking that he has now joined the growing number of his former aides who have earned doctoral degrees in recent years.
He further noted that within six years, about ten of his former aides have achieved that academic height and are doing well in their various professions.
Senator Dickson said this reflects the value of investing in human capacity and the need to continue nurturing talent in different sectors.
The lawmaker used the occasion to speak on the importance of self-reliance and personal development, urging young people to look beyond politics and government appointments in building their futures.
He stressed that success is not confined to public office but can be achieved through education, innovation, and professionalism.
Senator Dickson observed that many people have become overly dependent on government opportunities and patronage, often fighting and undermining each other for political positions instead of developing sustainable careers.
“We must encourage our people to develop themselves and compete professionally—in law, medicine, journalism, agriculture, engineering, and the arts.
“Too often, our people depend solely on government positions. After four or eight years, they return to square one. That cycle must end, ” he said.
He also expressed concern over the growing culture of negativity among young people on social media, noting that some now see attacking their leaders and benefactors as a form of entertainment.
He urged them to redirect their energy towards learning and building competence, saying that those who succeed both in Nigeria and abroad do so through skill, discipline, and perseverance, not through transient power or patronage.
On the theme, Senator Dickson described the manipulation of election results as one of the greatest threats to democracy, equating it to coup-making.
He argued that when electoral officials, politicians, or security agencies conspire to alter results, they are essentially overthrowing the sovereignty of the people as guaranteed by the Constitution.
“Those who write election results and impose them on the people are coup plotters
“They subvert the Constitution and the will of the people, ” he said.
The lawmaker called on Nigerians to unite and mobilise against all forms of electoral malpractice, saying that the true test of democracy is the ability of citizens’ votes to count without interference.
Senator Dickson urged civic groups, the media, and political stakeholders to work together to defend the integrity of the electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He commended the First Daily Group for its resilience and consistency over the years, describing it as an example of what dedication and vision can achieve.
He urged all Bayelsans and Nigerians to continue supporting the organisation and similar institutions that promote positive values, education, and public accountability.
“I congratulate the First Daily Group for this milestone and urge everyone to continue supporting them.
“Their story reminds us that with faith, focus, and hard work, we can build institutions that outlive individuals and contribute meaningfully to society.”
The highlight of the event was the keynote lecture delivered by Dr. Sam Amadi, who spoke on the theme, “2027: How Can We Make Our Votes Count?”
His presentation was followed by a robust panel discussion that explored the challenges and opportunities in ensuring credible elections and protecting the sanctity of the vote.
